This cold that comes sometimes is very annoying, isn't it? You sneeze constantly, your nose runs, your nose is blocked and it's hard to breathe. On top of that, you have a painful cough and your eyes are itchy and watery. At times like these, doctors recommend various medications to control these symptoms. Today we are talking about one such medicine. This is actually a combination of three medications.
What really happens with this medicine?
Simply put, this medicine helps relieve the symptoms of your cold or allergy. It does this in three main ways.
1. Brompheniramine: This is a histamine blocker . The chemical 'histamine' is what causes allergy symptoms in our bodies (sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, and skin rashes). This medicine works by blocking the action of that histamine.
2. Dextromethorphan: This is a cough suppressant . Sometimes the painful, dry cough that comes with it is very annoying. This medicine works by affecting the cough control center in our brain, reducing that unwanted cough.
3. Phenylephrine: This is a decongestant . When you have a cold, the tiny blood vessels inside your nose swell, causing your nose to become congested. This medicine causes those blood vessels to contract slightly, reducing nasal congestion and making it easier to breathe.
The important thing is that this medicine only controls symptoms. It does not kill the virus or bacteria in your body. This means that it does not cure an infection , it only reduces the discomfort you feel from the symptoms.
Things you should tell your doctor before taking medication
This medicine is not suitable for everyone. Therefore, it is very important to give your doctor a complete description of your health condition. Be sure to tell him/her if you have any of the following conditions:
| Health status / other matters | Description |
|---|---|
| Other illnesses | If you have a chronic illness such as asthma, diabetes, high blood pressure, glaucoma, thyroid disease, heart disease, blood vessel disease, stomach ulcer, or difficulty urinating. |
| MAOI-type drugs | It is essential to mention if you have taken an MAOI inhibitor such as Carbex, Eldepryl, Marplan, Nardil, or Parnate within the past 14 days. |
| Allergies | If you are allergic to Brompheniramine, Dextromethorphan, Phenylephrine, or any other medicine, food, or coloring contained in this medicine. |
| Pregnancy/breastfeeding | If you are pregnant, trying to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. |
How should I use the medicine?
This medicine is a pill to take by mouth. Take it with a full glass of water. If you feel upset, take it with food or a glass of milk. Take only the dose prescribed by your doctor, at the time prescribed. Never take more than the prescribed amount.
- If given to children: Although this medicine is sometimes recommended for children over 6 years of age, you should definitely talk to your pediatrician about it.
- For the elderly: People over the age of 60 may feel the effects of this medicine a little stronger. Therefore, a lower dose is usually recommended for them.
What to do if you take too much medicine?
If you think you have taken more than the prescribed dose, this is an emergency. Call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital immediately. Or go to the Emergency Department (ETU) of the nearest hospital. This is not a medicine to be shared with others. This is for you only.
Other things that may interact with this medicine (Drug Interactions)
Some medications can cause dangerous side effects when taken with this medicine. So tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking (including vitamins and herbal products).
| Medicines that should never be taken together | |
|---|---|
| MAOI antidepressants (MAOIs): Taking medications such as Carbex, Eldepryl, Marplan, Nardil, and Parnate with this medication can cause very serious reactions. | |
| Other drugs and substances that can cause problems | |
| Alcohol | Other cold or allergy medications |
| Medications for mental illness, depression, and anxiety | Sleeping pills |
| Painkillers (especially narcotics) | Medications for heart disease and high blood pressure |
| Some medications for Parkinson's disease | Some medicines for vomiting and stomach aches |
Be careful about these things when taking medication.
- Drowsiness: You may feel drowsy or dizzy after taking this medicine. Therefore, do not drive or operate machinery while taking this medicine. Drinking alcohol can increase this drowsiness, so avoid alcohol completely.
- Dizziness: You may feel dizzy when you suddenly stand up from a sitting position or when you get out of bed. Do these things slowly, especially if you are an older person.
- Dry mouth and eyes: Your mouth may feel dry. Chewing sugar-free gum, sucking on sugar-free candy, and drinking plenty of water can help. Your eyes may also feel dry. If you wear contact lenses, this can be a little more difficult. Lubricating drops can be used. But if these problems persist or are severe, tell your doctor.
Possible side effects
| Serious side effects that should be reported to the doctor immediately | |
|---|---|
|
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| Side effects that are usually not serious, but should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
| Anxiety | Stomach upset, nausea, diarrhea |
| Headache | Appetite |
Take-Home Message
- This medicine only controls the symptoms of colds and allergies, not the infection that causes the disease.
- Be sure to tell your doctor about all other medications you are taking and any chronic illnesses you have.
- Do not take this medicine with MAOI medications for any reason.
- Avoid driving or performing tasks that require alertness as drowsiness may occur after taking the medication. Avoid alcohol completely.
- If you experience a severe side effect (difficulty breathing, rapid heartbeat, seizures), seek medical advice immediately.
- If you take too much medicine, it is an emergency. Call the National Poisons Information Centre immediately or go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU).
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